The first thing many visitors think about at the mention of Austin is live music. Fortunately, children have not been forgotten. Many acts that they may know from their CDs can often be seen up close and personal. Your family may know the Parents’ Choice Award winner Joe McDermott from songs like “Spider Detective” and “Baby Kangaroo.” His engaging rhythm captures babies’ attention and his wildly imaginative lyrics challenge and engage older children.
The Scottish Rite Children’s Theater is the home of the Biscuit Brothers, a staple of children’s television. These Emmy Award winners’ music and humor make them perennial favorites. On November 14th, 2009 they will play hosts at the Austin Family Music Festival, which takes place and Pioneer Farms.
Some may know Staci Gray from songs such as “The Crocodile Dance” and “What’s that Smell.” If not, listeners are in for a real treat. She makes regular appearances at The Austin Children’s Museum and BookPeople (both right Downtown), as well at Family Connections and Ruta Maya. Shows at all these locations are free.
Live Music Venues in Austin
In addition to the artists mentioned above, try searching for children’s musical events by location. Ruta Maya on South Congress is a favorite with local parents. Every Sunday at 10:30 it presents artists such as The Telephone Company and The Strollers. These shows are always free.
On Wednesday mornings during the summer, Symphony Square Amphitheater is the place to be. Austin Symphony’s Children’s Day Art Park combines clowns, storytellers, crafts, and big name musicians for an art extravaganza. Entrance free is 50 cents (yes, cents!) per child, adults are free when accompanying a child.
Getting Around Austin
Those flying or taking the train into Austin should consider using public transportation. The novelty of taking a new bus is fun for children and it allows parents and kids to take in the sights together along the way more fully than if the parents are busy navigating a car.
Visitors staying Downtown, can make use of buses that can take them anywhere they might want to go and fares are low compared to most metropolitan areas. Capital Metro’s on-line Trip Planner allows a passenger to enter departure and destination addresses and then receive a detailed itinerary. In addition, comprehensive bus schedules, which are available for $1 at Capital Metro at 4th and Congress, allow you to navigate creatively as you move from one attraction to the next.
Just for Parents
In addition to all the family fun, there is the nightlife for which Austin is so justifiably famous. Some hotels offer child-care while the grown-ups are out. There are also nanny placement agencies that can provide pre-screened and local mama-approved babysitters.
Best of all, the wildest night on the town will probably not take you more than 5 blocks from your hotel, so if the kids need their parents, if only for a moment, they are never far away, even if it feels that way.
Preparations
For those not familiar with Central Texas weather, it is worth taking some time to consult the forecast before packing. The summer heat can be a shock for those who aren’t accustomed; the winter chill may be the last thing you expect so far south.
Thunderstorms are often torrential downpours. Fortunately, if you suddenly realize you need some piece of gear, you will probably find it, children’s sizes included, at REI or Patagonia, both located Downtown.
See related article on outdoor fun in the Capital of Texas.
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